Help me choose an Emerson

Joined
Jan 2, 2013
Messages
1,508
Against my better judgement, I have decided to procure a knife from EKI. All prior judgements aside, I would like to actually see if people's positive and negative opinions of EKI actually have any merit. There are three factors that are effecting my choice:

1. Below $200

2. Wave feature

3. Practical for EDC

I have a few of Emerson in mind particularly the mini-CQC7, the Commander (or mini), and the Multitasker (yes, I know it is made in China)

Any imput will be greatly appreciated.
 
I have had 4 different different Emerson. For me the mini-Commander CQC 15 seems to be the all around best fit for edc.
 
Definitely the mini 7 - perfect size for EDC. If you can get past the rough finish, Emerson's kick ass. You will have to break it in though, as they almost always come very stiff.
 
The best choice is the mini CQC-15! An awesome blade design that is the best of both worlds. A comfortable handle. Easy on the pocket. I am totally pleased with the design of this one. I bought a Commander and sold it. Way big for an EDC in my opinion. The mini CQC-15 has the tanto along with the recurve. Good luck with your choice wherever it leads you.
 
Horseman (mini cqc8) gets my vote.
Apx $150
As long as you understand what you are getting when you buy an Emerson, they are great knives.
ImageUploadedByTapatalk1369873290.816065.jpg
 
Alrighty, I have ruled out the Commander. I think it is a little too similar to my ZT200 to justify getting one.
 
The cqc8 has ben perfect for me but I have a local shop that I can hand select from. Chicago maybe a horseman.
 
The regular cqc7 is about the size of a mini commander/cqc15, so its still practical to carry. However, to me the ergos on the 7 are just a bit too squared. I'd vote Horseman.
 
Another vote for the Horseman or take a look at the even smaller "micro" Commander. It's another nice EDC and is the basis for the small blade used on the Multitasker EDC-1
 
I don't know if any of them are bad choices really. I like the 15, 7, 8, A100. I can't say which one would perform the best for you though.

Recurves also tend to be more difficult to sharpen if that is a concern of yours.

This is a misconception. There are many ways to easily, quickly, and effectively sharpen recurved blades. Basic sharpening skills are required though.
 
The Horseman is pretty appealing, but I am kind of leaning towards a knife with some history behind it, like the CQC-7 or Commander. Although I initially ruled out the commander, it is back on the table.
 
The Horseman is pretty appealing, but I am kind of leaning towards a knife with some history behind it, like the CQC-7 or Commander. Although I initially ruled out the commander, it is back on the table.

The obvious choice would be the 7 if history is what you're looking for.
That knife pretty much changed the game.
 
Another vote for the 7, you can get spear point (one of my favorite carries) or tanto. It is not too big but large enough to handle basically any every day task. I have had mine for 8 years now,cand it still functions great. As said above though, you do have to break them in.
 
Definitely the Horseman. Perfect size for edc. It packs a serious punch.
 
I'd go for the EDC-1, because that's the only Emerson I own and I'm happy that way :D
 
I like my old Benchmade Emerson 975 (CQC-7), my Raven, and my current Commander. My EDC-1 should be here in a couple of days.

For a new guy, I suggest you look at the A-100. Minimalist design with flexible ergonomics and capabilities. Get to know Emerson technology without the mission orientation of some of the others.
 
I like my old Benchmade Emerson 975 (CQC-7), my Raven, and my current Commander. My EDC-1 should be here in a couple of days.

For a new guy, I suggest you look at the A-100. Minimalist design with flexible ergonomics and capabilities. Get to know Emerson technology without the mission orientation of some of the others.

I like the A-100 alot. It seems to be a very elegant and functional folder, but it doesn't have the wave feature. I have a ghetto waved Spyderco Tenacious, and I have found the wave to be a very nice feature. While I do intend to eventually get an A-100, I'd rather have a knife with all of the hallmark Emerson traits.

I have pretty much narrowed it down to the Horseman, the mini-CQC7, and the mini Commander.
 
Back
Top